Conservation of G-Protein Epitopes in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (Group A) Despite Broad Genetic Diversity: Is Antibody Selection Involved in Virus Evolution?

摘要: ABSTRACT Worldwide G-glycoprotein phylogeny of human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) group A sequences revealed diversification in major clades and genotypes over more than 50 years recorded history. Multiple cocirculated during prolonged periods time, but recent dominance the GA2 genotype was noticed several studies, it is highlighted here with from viruses circulating recently Spain Panama. Reactivity monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) that recognize strain-variable epitopes G glycoprotein failed to correlate antibody reactivity. Additionally, no clear correlation found between changes predicted sites positive selection, despite both traits being associated C-terminal third glycoprotein. Hence, our data do not lend support proposed antibody-driven selection variants as a determinant hRSV evolution. Other alternative mechanisms are considered account for high degree G-protein variability. IMPORTANCE An unusual characteristic accumulation nonsynonymous (N) at higher rates synonymous (S) changes, reaching dN/dS values certain predictive selection. Since these cluster preferentially protein, like recognized by murine antibodies, immune (antibody) might be driving apparent analogous antigenic drift observed influenza hemagglutinin (HA). However, careful genetic comparison does provide evidence molecule, agreement published which did indicate protein sera. Alternative explanations immune-driven hypothesis offered level diversity this study.